Brits are set to bask in sizzling sunshine this week, thanks to a heatwave dubbed French frazzle.

Temperatures are set to soar, with highs of up to 25C in some parts of the country, from today (Tuesday, May 15).

The Met Office is predicting that the weather will reach highs of 20C in Windsor on Saturday, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's highly anticipated wedding will take place.

Here's everything you need to know about May's heatwave.

What is French frazzle?

Hot wind blowing in from France has created a warmer, sunnier climate which is predicted to last for 12 days.

Parts of England will see highs of 22-24C today, before settling down to 20C on Saturday for the royal wedding.

Eleanor Bell, principal meteorologist of The Weather Channel, said: "High pressure is expected to build early next week with warmer air from the south-west mixing in. This along with increasing sunshine will allow temperatures to lift above normal.

"But it will be cooler over the north-west, 13-17C, with more in the way of cloud and showers there."

Meanwhile, Met Office forecaster Alex Burkill said: “It looks like turning warmer from the weekend of the royal wedding onwards.

“Warm air is expected to come up from the near continent, with warmer than average conditions likely for the UK as a whole.

“Saturday looks pleasant for the wedding, with dry and bright conditions most likely.”

What is a heatwave?

(Image: PA)

A heatwave is defined as a "prolonged period of hot weather, which may be accompanied by high humidity".

They are most common in the summer - although they can occur in the autumn and winter seasons - when high pressure develops across an area.

The Met Office says: "They can occur in the UK due to the location of the jet stream, which is usually to the north of the UK in the summer. This can allow high pressure to develop over the UK resulting in persistent dry and settled weather."

The UK experienced a 10-day heatwave in 2003, during this period a record maximum temperature of 38.5C was recorded in Faversham, Kent.

How can I stay safe during a heatwave?

When the weather is too hot, for too long, there are some health risks to consider.

As well as keeping hydrated, here are some tips on coping in hot weather, from the NHS:

Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. You can open the windows for ventilation when it is cooler.

Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you're vulnerable to the effects of heat.

Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).

Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.

Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and diluted fruit juice. Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine (tea, coffee and cola) or drinks high in sugar.

Listen to alerts on the radio, TV and social media about keeping cool.

Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.

Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.

Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors.

Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.